Discover a rare chance to ride an antique narrow-gauge train and tour a historic machine shop in Pennsylvania’s scenic mountains. The East Broad Top Railroad combines natural beauty with industrial heritage for an unforgettable adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
The East Broad Top Railroad played a vital role in transporting coal and timber in the region during the early 1900s.
Conservation
The railroad actively promotes preservation and sustainable tourism, ensuring this historic line remains operational without harming the environment.
East Broad Top
Discover a rare chance to ride an antique narrow-gauge train and tour a historic machine shop in Pennsylvania’s scenic mountains. The East Broad Top Railroad combines natural beauty with industrial heritage for an unforgettable adventure.
East Broad Top is a fully restored narrow-gauge railroad based in Rockhill, Pennsylvania, preserving one of the nation's most complete 3-foot gauge rail systems. The railroad operates historic steam locomotives, gasoline-electric motorcars, and vintage equipment to offer public excursions, special events, and behind-the-scenes tours. Guests can choose from scenic steam train rides, trolley rides in partnership with the Rockhill Trolley Museum, seasonal celebrations, and exclusive guided tours led by skilled staff.
Historic attractions include one-hour steam train excursions, the M-3 and M-1 gasoline motorcar journeys, and specialty experiences such as the Master Mechanic's Tour and Archivist's Tour. The Master Mechanic's Tour grants visitors access to the roundhouse and rare narrow-gauge steam locomotives, while the Archivist's Tour offers a view of preserved documents and artifacts at Orbisonia Station. The property also hosts the Central Pennsylvania Ragtime & American Music Festival and seasonal events like Christmas in Coal Country.
Ticketed options include general admission train and trolley combinations, boxed lunches for pickup, and festival all-access passes. Seating on several motorcar excursions is limited, and many experiences provide insider access to restoration facilities and historic collections. Interpretive staff, preservation-focused programming, and the railroad's tangible archive materials support the site's educational value. East Broad Top's commitment to restoration, public programming, and collaboration with local museums makes it a trusted destination for visitors seeking authentic narrow-gauge railroad history.
Visitors can explore restoration workshops, observe ongoing repairs, and learn from volunteers and staff who maintain the historic equipment and archives through scheduled programs and seasonal demonstrations.
Location
Rockhill, PA
Central Pennsylvania destination
Gauge
3-foot narrow gauge
Historic narrow-gauge railroad
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Scheduled rides and special events
Archival Access
5,000+ linear feet
Extensive railroad records preserved
Book steam train rides, motorcar excursions, trolley combinations, or exclusive tours — seating and specialty tours are limited.
Dress in layers
Weather can vary along the route; bring layered clothing for comfort throughout the day.
Bring binoculars
Useful for wildlife spotting along the scenic sections of the route.
Arrive early
Arriving ahead of departure allows time for photos and to explore the station area.
Wear sturdy footwear
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking tours and to navigate the shop areas.
Comfortable clothing
Layered clothing helps adjust to changing weather during the trip.
Sun protection
Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen protect you during outdoor viewing.
summer
Camera or smartphone
Capture the scenic landscape and historic sites.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the journey and walking tours.